Mom’s Tastiest Quick Chicken Recipe

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This quick chicken recipe is one that everyone will love! Passed down from mom, it’s incredibly flavorful and easy to make. With a perfect blend of spices and a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of chicken legs, apples, and orange jam creates a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 6 chicken legs
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Dried garlic, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • Thyme, to taste
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 celery stick, chopped
  • 1 apple, chopped
  • 20g butter
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
  • 100g orange jam
  • 20g butter
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp mustard

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
    • Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt, black pepper, dried garlic, paprika, and thyme.
    • Set the chicken legs aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables and Apple:
    • In a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish, melt 20g of butter over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion, celery, and apple to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the apple is slightly softened.
    • Spread the sautéed vegetables and apple evenly across the bottom of the skillet or baking dish.
  3. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Place the seasoned chicken legs on top of the sautéed vegetables and apple.
    • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken legs.
  4. Make the Glaze:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the orange jam, 20g of butter, apple cider vinegar, and mustard.
    • Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
  5. Glaze the Chicken:
    • Pour the orange jam glaze over the chicken legs, making sure they are well coated.
  6. Bake the Chicken:
    • Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven.
    • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken legs are cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F).
    • If the chicken skin isn’t crispy enough, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve:
    • Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
    • Serve the chicken legs hot, with the cooked vegetables and apple from the bottom of the dish as a delicious side.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve this tasty chicken with a side of roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
  • You can also pair it with rice or couscous to soak up the delicious glaze.

Cooking Tips:

  • You can substitute the orange jam with apricot or peach jam for a different flavor.
  • Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or sage for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Chicken Legs: A good source of protein and essential vitamins like B6 and B12.
  • Apple and Celery: Add fiber and a touch of natural sweetness to the dish.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg

Storage:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • This chicken dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
  • The sweet and tangy glaze perfectly complements the savory chicken and vegetables.
  • It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any meal.

Conclusion: Mom’s tastiest quick chicken recipe is a must-try! With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a delightful orange jam glaze, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy this delicious meal any night of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of legs?
    • Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook faster than legs.
  2. What can I use instead of orange jam?
    • You can use apricot, peach, or even cranberry jam for a different flavor.
  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    • You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to bake it just before serving to ensure the chicken is crispy.
  4. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
    • You can substitute it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
    • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F).
  6. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, but the chicken won’t get crispy. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then broil the chicken in the oven for a few minutes to crisp the skin.
  7. Can I add other vegetables?
    • Absolutely! Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes would be great additions.
  8. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
    • You can skip the breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed crackers or panko.
  9. Can I freeze leftovers?
    • Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  10. What can I serve with this dish?
    • Roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes for this flavorful chicken.
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